Fast food made healthy

Try these ways to get good nutrition, fast.

• Plan out your snacks and meals ahead of time.

• Go to a grocery or convenience market instead of a fast-food restaurant. Look for choices like salads, sandwiches, yogurt, and fresh fruit and vegetables.

• Buy precut, prepackaged fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables. You can use them for a snack, salad, smoothie, or stir-fry.

• Microwave a frozen dinner that has less than 15 grams (g) of fat and less than 800 milligrams (mg) of sodium. Complete the meal with a whole-grain roll, vegetables, or fresh fruit.

• If you must have fast food, consider your options. Go for veggie burgers, broiled and skinless chicken breast sandwiches, or dinner salads with low-fat dressing. Avoid large (super-sized) portions.

• Blot the extra oil from food with a napkin before you eat it.

• Instead of french fries, choose a baked potato with salsa or a side salad.

Tip

Fast-food restaurants often have online or printed nutrition information available. Ask for this information and look up your favorite items before you order.